"We will now begin the process of negotiating a new contract with management to improve the wages, benefits, and standard of living for New England Central's train and engine service employees," said BLET National President Don Hahs in a prepared statement.

Owned by RailAmerica Inc., the 329-mile NECR operates a line between East Alburgh, Vt., and New London, Conn., and moves iron, steel, grain, lumber, wood, pulp and paper products.